Moderately PopularLatinfemale

Mae

Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia

Popularity

58

/100

At a glance

Mae is a girl name with Latin roots, most associated with the idea of pearl; a diminutive of margaret or variant of may, associated with the month of may from the roman goddess maia.

Meaning

Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia

Origin

Latin

Gender

Girl / Female

Pronunciation

MAY

Name story

What Mae communicates

Mae is a girl name of Latin origin meaning "Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia". That gives it a clear, rooted emotional tone that is easy to connect with and quick to remember.

It is pronounced MAY and sits at a popularity score of 58/100 in our index, which suggests how widely it is chosen today. Names in this range tend to appeal to parents who want something recognizable yet still distinctive.

If Mae feels close but not quite right, the related names and theme links below lead to options that share its Latin heritage or its core idea of "Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia". Comparing a few side by side is the easiest way to settle on the name that fits your family best.

Theme links

Explore the same idea

Famous People Named Mae

  • MMae West (American actress and entertainer)
  • MMae Jemison (first African-American female astronaut)

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Share the Mae name card

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Mae name meaning "Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia" - Latin female name share card | NameMeanings

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Mae mean?

The name Mae means "Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia". It is a name of Latin origin that has been carried across many cultures and generations. The meaning reflects qualities valued in Latin naming tradition, which is part of why parents who want a name with a clear, positive sense often choose Mae.

What is the origin of the name Mae?

Mae originates from Latin. Names of Latin origin tend to carry deep historical and cultural significance, shaped by language, religion, and tradition over centuries. Mae fits that pattern: its roots give it the meaning "Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia" and connect it to a long lineage of related names that share the same heritage.

Is Mae a popular name?

Mae appears on baby-name popularity charts across many English-speaking countries. Its usage has shifted across generations, rising and falling with cultural moments, famous bearers, and naming trends. You can see where Mae sits relative to other names on its popularity score above, and compare it with similar names in the same style.

What names are similar to Mae?

Names similar to Mae include those with shared origins, related meanings, or a similar sound and rhythm. The related names and similar-meaning sections above list strong alternatives, so if you love Mae but want options, you can explore names that carry the same Latin heritage or the same idea of "Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia".

How do you pronounce Mae?

Mae is pronounced "MAY". Pronunciation can vary slightly by region and language, but this guide reflects the most common way the name Mae is said.

Is Mae a boy or a girl name?

Mae is most commonly used as a girl name. Like many names it can cross gender lines depending on culture, era, and family preference, but its Latin roots and traditional usage are reflected on this page. If you want a clearly gender-neutral option, browse our unisex names for alternatives.

What does the name Mae symbolize?

The name Mae symbolizes "Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia". That theme gives Mae a distinct emotional tone that many parents connect with, and it links the name to a wider family of names built on the same idea. Exploring names that share the meaning "Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia" is a good way to find alternatives with a similar feeling.

Is Mae a good baby name?

Mae is a meaningful choice: it carries the meaning "Pearl; a diminutive of Margaret or variant of May, associated with the month of May from the Roman goddess Maia", has clear Latin heritage, and a recognizable pronunciation. Whether it is the right baby name depends on your taste, family traditions, and how it pairs with your surname.